POLYGENOUS Meaning and
Definition
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Polygenous is an adjective that is used to describe organisms, particularly animals, where individuals have multiple mates or multiple breeding partners during their lifetime. This reproductive behavior is commonly observed in several species across the animal kingdom. In polygenous species, both males and females may have more than one mate concurrently or during different reproductive seasons.
The term "polygenous" is derived from the Greek words "poly" meaning "many" and "genos" meaning "kind" or "type." It signifies the diverse or multiple mating patterns within a particular species. This complex breeding system can be influenced by various factors such as social structure, availability of resources, competition, and reproductive success.
Polygenous behavior is commonly observed in species such as certain primates, birds, fish, and insects. In some cases, one sex may exhibit stronger polygeny than the other due to differences in reproductive strategies or social roles. For instance, male polygeny is widely seen in species where males compete for access to females, while female polygeny might occur when females seek multiple males to increase genetic diversity or optimize resource acquisition.
Understanding polygenous behavior provides insights into evolutionary processes, sexual selection, and the dynamics of population genetics. Exploring the mechanisms behind polygeny helps researchers to better understand the adaptive advantages and ecological implications of multiple mating strategies within different species.
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Consisting of many kinds.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for POLYGENOUS
Etymology of POLYGENOUS
The word polygenous is derived from the combination of two roots: poly- and -genous.
1. Poly- is derived from the Greek word polus meaning many or multiple. It is used as a prefix and indicates many or much in terms of quantity or variety.
2. -genous is derived from the Greek word genos meaning kind or race. It is used as a suffix and indicates producing or originating from.
Therefore, polygenous combines these two roots to form a word that means producing or originating from multiple kinds or races.
Similar spelling words for POLYGENOUS
- polygenes,
- polygeneous,
- plugins,
- Belgianness,
- bludgeons,
- polygenies,
- bulginess,
- bulgines,
- bluejeans,
- Belgians,
- bullgines,
- pelagians,
- BILAGINES,
- plagens.
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